A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to laws relating to the payment of certain benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that are affected by death, and for other purposes.

1/29/2025, 11:56 AM

Summary of Bill S 274

Bill 119 s 274, also known as the "Veterans Benefits Improvement Act," aims to make changes to laws regarding the payment of benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in cases where the beneficiary has passed away. The bill seeks to address issues related to the timely and accurate payment of benefits to surviving family members and beneficiaries of deceased veterans.

Specifically, the bill includes provisions to streamline the process for notifying the VA of a veteran's death, ensuring that benefits are not erroneously paid out after the veteran has passed away. It also aims to improve the efficiency of the VA in processing claims and payments to surviving family members, reducing delays and errors in benefit distribution.

Additionally, the bill includes measures to enhance transparency and accountability within the VA, requiring the agency to report on the timeliness and accuracy of benefit payments to survivors of deceased veterans. This information will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that beneficiaries receive the benefits they are entitled to in a timely manner. Overall, Bill 119 s 274 seeks to make important improvements to the laws governing the payment of benefits to survivors of deceased veterans, ensuring that they receive the support and assistance they deserve.

Congressional Summary of S 274

Next of Kin Collections Protection Act of 2025

This bill modifies the effective date of a reduction or discontinuance of a Department of Veterans Affairs pension under an existing rating or decision in cases where the payee has died. Specifically, the bill provides that the effective date of a reduction or discontinuance of a pension that is under an existing rating or decision must be the last day of the month in which the death of the payee occurs.

Current Status of Bill S 274

Bill S 274 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 28, 2025. Bill S 274 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 28, 2025. Bill S 274's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. as of January 28, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 274

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Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

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Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 274

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 274

A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements to laws relating to the payment of certain benefits administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs that are affected by death, and for other purposes.